Wukong, Ne Zha, DeepSeek: China says external ‘suppression’ accelerates innovation

Introduction: China’s Growing Global Influence in Technology and Entertainment

China’s influence on the global stage is expanding rapidly, as highlighted by Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao during a recent press conference. The minister emphasized the role of Chinese technology and entertainment companies in breaking barriers and gaining international recognition. One standout example is DeepSeek, a tech company that has made waves with its low-cost, high-performance open-source model. This innovation has significantly lowered the global barrier to technology adoption, making advanced tools more accessible to countries and businesses worldwide. Additionally, China’s gaming and film industries are thriving, with titles like Black Myth: Wukong and Ne Zha capturing the attention of global audiences. These milestones underscore China’s growing presence in both the digital and cultural realms, marking a new era of international collaboration and exchange.

China’s Technological Breakthroughs: DeepSeek and Beyond

Wang Wentao highlighted the ground-breaking achievements of DeepSeek, a Chinese tech company that has revolutionized the field of artificial intelligence and open-source technology. By offering low-cost, high-performance solutions, DeepSeek has democratized access to cutting-edge technology, enabling businesses and researchers around the world to benefit from these innovations. This approach has not only strengthened China’s reputation as a leader in tech innovation but also demonstrated its commitment to global collaboration and development. The success of DeepSeek serves as a testament to China’s ability to produce world-class technology that addresses real-world challenges and fosters progress on a global scale.

The Rise of China’s Gaming and Film Industries

China’s entertainment sector is also making significant strides, as evidenced by the global success of games like Black Myth: Wukong and Ne Zha. These titles have not only captivated domestic audiences but have also gained widespread recognition internationally, showcasing China’s rich cultural heritage and storytelling prowess. The gaming industry, in particular, has emerged as a key driver of China’s cultural exports, with domestically developed games appealing to diverse markets worldwide. Similarly, the film industry is leveraging innovative storytelling and state-of-the-art production techniques to produce content that resonates with global audiences. This cultural Export is not only boosting China’s soft power but also fostering cross-cultural exchange, bridging gaps between East and West.

China’s Trade in Services Reaches New Heights

China’s trade in services reached a record 7.5 trillion yuan in 2024, a significant milestone that highlights the country’s growing dominance in the global services sector. This impressive figure reflects the country’s strategic focus on diversifying its economy and expanding its reach in high-value-added industries. The services sector, which includes finance, tourism, education, and technology, has emerged as a key driver of economic growth. With the global economy increasingly shifting toward service-oriented industries, China is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in this sector. As the country looks ahead to 2025, the services trade is expected to remain a major growth engine, further solidifying China’s position as a global economic powerhouse.

Boosting Domestic Consumption to Drive Economic Growth

Amid global economic uncertainties and trade tensions, China is turning its focus inward to boost domestic consumption as a key driver of growth. This strategy comes in response to potential challenges posed by a drop in tariff-sensitive exports, particularly in the context of the ongoing tariff war with the United States. Minister Wang Wentao emphasized that China would not be intimidated by external pressures, asserting that "China won’t be cowed." Policymakers are doubling down on measures to stimulate domestic demand, recognizing the critical role it plays in sustaining economic momentum. The data supports this approach: total retail sales of consumer goods in 2024 amounted to 48.3 trillion yuan, marking a 3.5% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the resilience of China’s domestic market and its potential to absorb shocks from global economic fluctuations.

The Role of Policymakers in Shaping China’s Economic Future

As China navigates the complexities of the global economy, policymakers are playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic trajectory. The focus on domestic consumption is a strategic move to reduce reliance on external markets and create a more sustainable growth model. By investing in infrastructure, fostering innovation, and supporting domestic industries, policymakers are laying the foundation for long-term economic stability. At the same time, the emphasis on cultural and technological exports highlights China’s ambition to become a global leader in both economic and cultural spheres. With a clear roadmap and a commitment to reform, China is poised to overcome challenges and achieve its economic goals in 2025 and beyond.

Conclusion: China’s Path Forward

In summary, China is making significant strides in both technology and entertainment, with companies like DeepSeek and cultural exports like Black Myth: Wukong and Ne Zha gaining international acclaim. The country’s trade in services has reached unprecedented levels, and domestic consumption is being leveraged as a key driver of economic growth. Policymakers are actively working to navigate global challenges while fostering innovation and cultural exchange. As China continues to assert its influence on the world stage, it is clear that the country is not only a global economic powerhouse but also a cultural and technological leader. The road ahead will undoubtedly present challenges, but with its resilience and strategic foresight, China is well-positioned to overcome them and continue its trajectory of growth and success.